A somber outcome has been confirmed by SANParks following the search for a missing visitor at Augrabies Falls National Park.

According to SANParks, the tourist was reported missing on Monday, after which the South African Police Service (SAPS) was notified and a joint search effort began.

“Two days later, the search intensified. With approval from park management, the family of the missing visitor arranged additional resources, including an aerial search and expanded ground teams. It was during this operation that a body was discovered off the Dassie Trail.”

SANParks says the body was positively identified as the missing elderly man. SAPS are now investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of the tourist.

“SAPS coordinated the recovery of the body, and the matter has been referred to the relevant forensic authorities for further investigation,” SANParks added.